Is Travelling Safe for the Solo Traveller?

Updated on January 11, 2015

One of the biggest concerns for women traveling alone is safety. For this reason, it can be tough to decide where to go or how to do it. Thankfully, there are many companies out there that cater to the person who is travelling solo so you can check out those places that you want to see without having to be as concerned about safety. Of course, no matter where you are, even at home, it is important that you are smart and take necessary precautions.

Language and Transportation Worries

If you are a solo traveller looking to take a trip by yourself, it can be a good idea to take a tour. This can be especially helpful if you are travelling somewhere that they do not speak your language or that is known for being difficult to get around. Another reason to take a tour is if they drive on the other side of the road than they are used to or car rentals are very expensive or need an international driver’s license.

Have you gone on a solo trip?

Having Company

Great vacation ideas for singles include taking tours as you can be with other people but also get to see a place. This can be especially important if you are travelling for a significant amount of time as it can get lonely on the road. Many companies do not charge an extra fee for solo vacations as long as you are willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. If you require a room to yourself, do not be surprised if you pay a premium.

Seeing the Sights

A tour also guarantees that you will get to see what you plan to see as well as information about that specific destination. Your tour guide should be familiar with the region and be able to answer any questions that you may have. Sometimes you will have a different guide for a specific area, mainly because they know the area better – they likely live there – and so your main guide will deter to them to assist you. Do not be scared when this happens, it is for your benefit!

There is no need to worry if you are a woman travelling alone or a man, as many areas are totally safe. Like home, keep your wallet nearby and where you can see it as well as your passport and anything else important. If possible, it is a good idea to lock these items up in the safe at your hotel, if they have one.

Comments 10 comments

I've traveled twice solo. I didn't do any tours but I had a great time.

SKCandles 4 years ago from Canada Author

I travelled on my own in Australia. It was great as well. Different countries may have you think about tours though.

dmcgaw 4 years ago from Manitoba, Canada

I really do want to do this! I love the idea of travelling solo!

mommytalks 4 years ago from Phoenix, AZ

Hmmm..... so you are saying I can leave my hubby and kids at home and enjoy the silence.... I just may try this ;)

PageC 4 years ago

Sadly, my solo trips have been for work, not for pleasure. Great suggestions though, and inspiring when we want to go someplace, but have no one to go with.

reindeerz 4 years ago from Georgia

I haven't really tried a solo trip yet, could be fun!

SKCandles 4 years ago from Canada Author

Mommytalks.. if you like.. :)

Dmcgaw... it really is a great experience. And if people tell you that you cannot do it, don't believe them!

PageC.. that is kind of sad. You need to go alone or find a travel partner.

Reindeerz... it can be, but not for everyone and not for all locations. For instance, las vegas by yourself is not fun :(

AnnetteM 3 years ago

Female travellers please check out this TRaveller Saafety Mobile APP for Android and iOS. It has a FREE SOS/GPS tracking function for piece of mind. And a whole lot of other safety alerts/news/in country embassy information etc! Check it out! http://travelguardian.info

Glimmer Twin Fan 2 years ago

Before I was married I traveled to many places in the world by myself. I always loved traveling alone. I set my own agenda, have my own room... It's wonderful. I do enjoy traveling with my family now, but every once in a while I'll go off by myself for a couple of days. Not nearly as many exotic overseas locales, but nice cities in the US. I was always very careful and never had any problems. I do agree that there are places that I would have joined a tour if I had visited.

Kristen Howe 20 months ago from Northeast Ohio

I would love to travel solo, but I easily do get lost. Maybe someday I'll be brave enough to travel locally, since I have no car. Great advice and voted up for useful!